The Catskill Chronicle

FREMONT CENTER, NY (November 30, 2010) – Catskill Citizens for Safe Energy has announced:

“In an historic vote, the New York State Assembly enacted a temporary ban on hydraulic fracturing which will remain in effect until May 15, 2011.  The bill, A11443B/S08129B  was approved by the Senate last summer and is now on its way to Governor Paterson, who is expected to sign it into law.

The de facto moratorium that has been in effect for the past two years can be attributed to Governor Paterson because he ordered the NYS DEC to prepare a new environmental impact statement to set standards for issuing permits for high-volume hydraulic fracturing and the DEC has yet to finalize its work.  By signing this bill, Governor Paterson will cement his reputation as the first Governor in the country to protect his citizens from the precipitous onslaught of dangerous and poorly regulated shale gas extraction.

The vote in the Assembly caps an incredible two weeks for those of us who have been working hard to combat the corporations that intend to turn our communities into sacrificial energy zones.

____________________________________________________________

The day after Thanksgiving, Governor Paterson acknowledged the role ordinary citizens have played in defeating dangerous drilling saying "This is a very good example of public participation. Our DEC…originally ruled that hydrofracking would not affect the water quality in the area, but we’ve received additional information and have not been able to come to a conclusion as to whether or not this is a good idea… We’re not going to risk public safety or water quality…  At this point, I would say that the hydrofracking opponents have raised enough of an argument to thwart us going forward at this time."

Read Full Post »

Photo provided by Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.

BETHEL, NY (November 29, 2010) – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is honored by the ongoing support of the local community, which contributes to the not-for-profit organization’s continued growth as an important contributor to cultural life in our region.

Bethel Woods strives to continue to develop educational and community programs to build upon its current offerings, and depends on the generosity of individuals, foundations and corporate donors to assure long-term growth and sustainability.

The Museum at Bethel Woods’ current special exhibition, Collecting Woodstock: Recent Museum Acquisitions is made possible, in part, by the generous support of Mr. Alan Kesten, Ms. Kathy Gaglio and the Kesten Family.

The Museum started collecting Sixties and Woodstock festival artifacts during construction, and this effort continues today. To celebrate artifacts collected to date, and the donors who gave them, this new special exhibit opened on July 29 and will run through January 2, 2011, so don’t miss the opportunity to see these unique items before they head back into the archives.  The exhibit features thirty new festival images from 5 photographers, never-before displayed festival artifacts, a video compilation of rare Woodstock footage, interviews, home video of the festival and live music audio from the concert.

Darlene Fedun, Bethel Woods Chief Operating Officer remarked, “Objects associated with the historic 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair are essential to the growth and educational potential of the Museum and are actively sought by our team.  Mr. Kesten’s support of this exhibition helps us to showcase our growing collection.”

Mr. Kesten of Forestburgh, is a Sullivan County Coroner who also owns Yellow Cab Co., has been a Bethel Woods Box Holder since 2006. He is also active in the Monticello Fire Department. Ms. Gaglio is a kindergarten teacher at The Homestead School in Glen Spey.

Mr. Kesten explained, “My family and I are proud to support Bethel Woods and their goal of sharing these outstanding artifacts and the history of this important decade.  We believe it is a vital community obligation to support one of Sullivan County’s premier destinations for residents and visitors.

Special exhibitions are an integral part of The Museum’s purpose. The planning and mounting of these exhibitions provides opportunities for intern and volunteer involvement in research, curatorial work, writing, and hands-on installation. Special exhibitions also help to expand the Museum’s audience while enhancing its respected reputation.

If you are interested in learning more about what you can do to support future exhibitions, community or education programs at Bethel Woods, please contact the Development office at 845-295-2500.

Photo Attached:  From left Director of the Museum at Bethel Woods, Wade Lawrence with donors Alan Kesten and Kathy Gaglio.

Read Full Post »

Under the Unique/Most Interesting Commercial category, “Blue Hills Farm Tent and Breakfast,” Narrowsburg – Owner: Jane Luchsinger – Contractor/Builder: Ken McGinnis, was a sure winner. – Provided Photos

Compiled by Leni Santoro

MONTICELLO,NY (November 28, 2010) – Homes and businesses that enhance the appearance of Sullivan County were recognized at the 2010 “Sullivan Showcase Awards” on November 11 at the Eagle’s Nest in Bloomingburg.  The annual awards are sponsored by the Sullivan County Board of Realtors and Sullivan Renaissance.

The residential judges were Diane Deutsch of Preferred Homes & Properties, Joe Freda of Freda Real Estate and Glenn Pontier of Sullivan Renaissance.

The commercial judges were: Diane Butler of Eagle Valley Realty, Susan Boersema of Ulster Savings Bank and Deborah Hornicek of Callicoon Real Estate.

Van Morrow put together the PowerPoint presentation; Ann Finneran of Sullivan Renaissance created the award certificates; and Mary Greene, Lori Malone, Jennifer Bitetto, Emily Grillo and Danielle Gaebel of The River Reporter produced the journal.

In addition to the winners listed below the following finalists were also honored:

Best Residential Addition

White Lake Homes, Kauneonga Lake – Owner: Leonard Shirman – Contractor/Builder: John Connolly

Best New Residential Construction – Under 2500 Sq. Ft.

Lake Ridge Road, Narrowsburg – Owner: Denzil & Carolyn Gallagher – Contractor/Builder: Catskill Farms – Architects: KLM Architects

Tuthill Road, Barryville – Owner: Bryce Boyd and Thomas Norrby – Contractor/Builder: Catskill Farms

Bluestone Drive, Eldred – Owner: Gayle Berman – Contractor/Builder: Catskill Farms – Architects: KLM Architects

Best New Residential Construction – Over 2500 Sq. Ft.

Pine Lake Drive, Wurtsboro – Owner: Phil Milo – Contractor/Builders: PB Majestic Homes and Wurtsboro Electric Service, Inc.

Clear Lake Road, Roscoe – Owners: Sally and Ed Cerny – Contractor/Builder: Allison & Devore – Architect: Irace Architecture, Joseph Irace

Chapin Estate, White Lake – Owners: Russ and Barbara Campbell – Contractor/Builder: Log Chips, LLC, Fred Krol

Best Commercial Spruce Up

Old Stranahan Building, Main Street, Narrowsburg – Owner: Jane Slawyer, Narrowsburg – Contractor/Builder: Narrowsburg Beautification Group/Delaware Valley Job Corps

Best Commercial Renovation Under 2500 Sq. Ft.

“Peace, Love & Ice Cream,” 200 Rock Hill Drive, Rock Hill – Owner: Les & Barbara Fischer – Contractor/Builder: Stanley & Sons

Best Commercial Renovation Over 2500 Sq. Ft.

“Lander’s River Trips,” 5961 Route 97, Narrowsburg – Owner: Rick Lander – Contractor/Builder: Lance Mercado, Narrowsburg

Unique/Most Interesting Commercial

“Cottage at Belle Knowle,” Eldred – Owner: Erin & Larry Farmer

_______________________________________________________________

And the 2010 Sullivan Showcase Award Winners are:

This year the Showcase added a new category – Best Residential Green – to acknowledge homes that are build with the environment and sustainability in mind.

Best Residential Green: Stewart Road, North Branch

Owner: Jeff McMahon & Lizanne Haimes

Contractor/Builder: Jeff McMahon

Designer: Jeff McMahon

Best Residential Addition: Crawford Road, Eldred

Owner: Charles Petersheim

Contractor/Builder: Charles Petersheim – Catskill Farms

Best Residential Renovation

This category is unusual this year because there are three winners.  After reviewing all the entries, the judges were faced with three very distinct and varied finalists – each which could be the winner. The three judges then evaluated the entries point by point using a numeric scale – and found that all three homes had received exactly the same number of points.  Without further ado – here are the three winners in Best Residential Renovation.

Skyline Drive, Fremont Center

Owner: Carolyn Ann Owens /Gregory Solowsky

Contractor/Builder: Scott & Doug Woods

Broadway, Kauneonga Lake

Owner: Jeff Lawson/Peter Hutchman

Contractor/Builder: Allison & Devore

Architect: Irace Architecture, Joseph Irace

Dahlia Road, Liberty

Owner: Ben White

Contractor/Builder: Catskill Harvest, Will Foster

Architect: Irace Architecture, Joseph Irace

Unique/Most Interesting Residential

Smallwood, Bethel

Owner: Wes & Beata Tavor

Contractor/Builder: WT Builders

Designer: Alvin Adler

Best New Residential Construction – Under 2500 Square Feet

Barryville

Owners: Norah Lawlor and Jeffrey Bradford

Contractor/Builder: Catskill Farms

Architects: KLM Architects

Best New Residential Construction – Over 2500 Sq.Ft.

The Lake House

Contractor/Builder: Green Earth Companies Northeast, LLC, Marc Dubrovsky

Architect: Dennis Wedlick Architect, LLC

Special Award Category

Happy Avenue, Bethel

Owner: Scripps Networks – DIY

Contractor/Builder: Catskill Farms

Best Commercial Spruce Up

Literacy Volunteer Center, 63 North Street, Monticello

Best Commercial Renovation Under 2500 Square Feet

“BrookHouse Gallery,” 5 Austin Road, Barryville

Owner: David Bush & Luiz Aragon

Contractor/Builder: Rory McKean, McKean Custom Homes, Milford

Best Commercial Renovation Over 2500 Square Feet

“Green Earth Realty,” 5663 Route 52, Kenoza Lake

Owner: Marc Dubrovsky

Designer: Marc Dubrovsky

Contractor/Builder: Green Earth Companies, Northeast, LLC, Marc Dubrovsky

“Dancing Cat Saloon,” 2037 Route 17B, Bethel

Owner: Stacy Cohen & Monte Sachs

Designer: Audrey Cohen/Monte Sachs

Contractor/Builder: Built to Last/Aaron Salovin

Best New Commercial Construction

“Jeff Bank,” 1460 Route 17B, White Lake

Owner: HSD, LLC/Jeff Bank

Contractor/Builder: Woodstone Companies, Bethel,

Designer: Steve Dubrovsky

Best New Construction Modular

“EcoGreen Community Housing at SCCC” Loch Sheldrake

Owner: EcoGreen Community Housing Fund

Contractor/Builder: The Ruby Group, Goshen

Architect: Mike Berta, Poughkeepsie

Unique/Most Interesting Commercial

“Blue Hills Farm Tent and Breakfast,” Narrowsburg

Owner: Jane Luchsinger

Contractor/Builder: Ken McGinnis

Special Acknowledgement – Signs

Good signage is important, which is why two signs are being recognized this year.

“Dancing Cat Saloon,” 2037 Route 17B, Bethel

Owner: Stacy Cohen & Monte Sachs

Artist: Paul Stark, White Lake

“in2retr0,” 1163 Route 17B, Mongaup Valley

Owner: Amy Kuperblum

Municipal/Public Building

The winner of this category receives a $2000 award from Sullivan Renaissance to help with planting flowers, landscaping and other beautification.

Mountaindale Railway Visitor’s Center, 11 Station Road, Mountaindale

Owner: Town of Fallsburg

Architect: Bernard Kozykowski

Engineer: William H. Illing

Landscaping: Mountaindale Action Committee

Contractor/Builder: Precise Landscaping, Inc., Wallkill

_________________________________________________________

Showcase committee chair Diane Deutsch, who emceed the awards, encouraged everyone to begin thinking about nominations for 2011.  For more information about the awards, call Mary Bakalis at 845-794-2735, mbakalis@verizon.net.

For more photos of the Mountaindale Railway Visitor’s Center visit the Chronicle on Zenfolio. Read the story “A Brand New Old Train Station Opens in Mountaindale.”

Read Full Post »

HARRIS, NY (November 24, 2010) – The Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) Outpatient Rehabilitation Services Department is pleased to announce that its speech pathologists are now certified to perform Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT).

CRMC’s speech pathologists Vivian Liff, SLP, Rachelle Gittleson, CCC, SLP and Jennifer Kessler, CCC, SLP have undergone nationally-recognized training to become certified to provide LSVT. LSVT is an effective, research-based method of voice therapy for individuals who are aging or have Parkinson’s disease or other conditions, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. The treatment helps to improve vocal loudness, speech intelligibility and facial expressions, thus enhancing overall communication for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other conditions. For more information on LSVT or to schedule an appointment, please contact 845-794-3300 ext. 2139.

CRMC’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Services offers a full range of rehabilitation services that facilitate functional independence and improved quality of life. CRMC’s patients receive hands-on occupational, physical and speech therapy performed by experienced, compassionate and professional therapists.

An affiliated member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, Catskill Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, call 845-794-3300 or visit www.crmcny.org.

Read Full Post »

THE CATSKILL CHRONICLE (November 24, 2010) – The editors of The Catskill Chronicle would like to send a huge and heartfelt “thank you” to our ever-so-loyal readers, our columnists and our guest writers. 

When we started this back at the very end of May in 2009, we had no idea where it would lead. Who knew that 18 months later we would have almost 110,000 all-time views, nearly 600 posts, almost 300 comments on our stories, sharing services with Facebook, Twitter, Digg, StumbleUpon, Reddit and Press This, and 424 Facebook fans.

We are truly grateful for all of you, and wish you a bountiful Thanksgiving full of peace and love. 

And don’t forget to have fun …

Read Full Post »

Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (November 22, 2010) – Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Jonathan Rouis and a standing-room-only crowd welcomed Governor David Paterson, Senator Chuck Schumer, Congressman Maurice Hinchey, former Congressman Ben Gilman, New York Assemblymember Aileen Gunther, Town of Thompson Supervisor Tony Cellini, President of the Building Trades Council of New York Ed Malloy, and a host of other economic and civic development organizations to Sullivan County today.

The occasion was the historic signing of a compact between the State of New York and the Wisconsin-based Stockbridge Munsee Community Band of Mohican Indians to build a casino resort in Bridgeville.

Earlier in the day, Governor Paterson and Stockbridge Munsee Tribal Council President Kimberly Vele attended a ceremony in Madison County where they signed a land-claim settlement. “If approved by the US Department of the Interior,” said Paterson, “it will bring Sullivan County closer to its dream and its former history as a ranking site for tourism and entertainment destination.

“You’ve heard this song before,” continued the Governor, “You’ve heard about economic development and job creation that didn’t exist or didn’t get created. There were promises that weren’t kept and hopes that were not fulfilled. What makes this different is that President Vele and I will sign a compact that if ratified by the Secretary of Interior will create the kind of games and resort complex right here in Sullivan County that will bring economic development to this region.”

Paterson said that the building of a casino will create 3000 labor jobs in the process of development and 500 permanent jobs upon completion. “The estimated yield from just the building of the project is $1.3 billion and the estimated revenues to the state including Sullivan County will be $1 billion annually. In addition the Stockbridge Munsees have entered into a local service agreement with the county of Sullivan which will provide $15 million to the county every year to be shared by Town of Thompson and other centers affected by the construction of this facility.”

The Governor acknowledged that “There are hurdles still yet to climb.” But he said, “We are closer than we’ve ever been.” Those hurdles include environmental objections and other Indian tribes who want to build casinos in Sullivan County, including the St. Regis Mohawk tribe, the Oneidas, and the Seneca Indian Nation.

What made today’s compact possible is an exception to the Kempthorne Doctrine, which is named after former Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne. The ruling disallowed off-reservation casinos.

But according to Senator Chuck Schumer, who saluted the Governor and all those involved because the compact “does it in a different way … What stymied us in the past was the commutability rule that where the native tribes were located had to be within commuting distance from where the casino would be. But what they’ve done here – there’s a second exception to the rule which says that if it’s on a land claim …that you don’t need the commutability rule because it’s on actual land that has been put in trust for the Indians. And what they did today, was they exchanged land the Stockbridge Munsees had a right to in Madison County for land here on where the casino would be located. And that’s a much better path.”

Schumer said that while there’s no guarantee, “it’s more likely than it’s been in the past.” He pledged to “use whatever clout I have in Washington to get them to say yes. … I was on the phone this morning,” Schumer continued, “and I’ve already asked them (the Dept of the Interior) to move very quickly. As a New York State resident, I‘d like to see all those New York City people not go to Connecticut (no offense to anyone), not go to Atlantic City, but to come to NY, create jobs in NY and pay tax dollars in NY.” And using casino game vocabulary, he continued, “This would be an ace in the hole even in a large metropolitan area like NYC, but it’s a royal flush and four-of-a-kind combined in a job-starved area like the Catskills … I will keep the pressure up until they have signed on the dotted line and the ink is dry.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Jonathan Rouis. “With Sullivan County’s unemployment rate hovering around 10%, we need the 2-3,000 construction jobs and 500 permanent jobs this project will create. We need jobs for our middle-class families who are feeling the tremendous strain from this recession and we need jobs to encourage our young people to live, work and raise the next generation in SC. … We need the economic multiplier that comes from existing SC businesses providing goods and services to the casino.”

Paterson remarked that Sullivan County has waited years for a project such as this and the the Stockbridge Munsees have “waited centuries for there to be recognition that they actually are native to New York and they didn’t leave Madison County the way the Dodgers left Brooklyn.” He thanked the tribe for dedicating “their resources to building a facility that will yield jobs, opportunity and development for this region that has been blighted for too long. It’s time for good government to become fast government and we fast track this to Washington where we hope the Secretary of the Interior will sign it.”

President of the Stockbridge Munsee Tribal Council, Kimberly Vele said it was an historic day for her tribe, gaining the “recognition that we have sought for nearly 200 years, the formal acknowledgement of our historical and cultural heritage in New York State. … The last 10 years have been a roller coaster ride filled with high expectation and deep disappointment for those who have worked so hard to restore SC as one of the country’s premiere recreational destinations.” She then called on those present to “make sure that Washington knows that our settlement will lead to the economic revitalization of the Catskills, will provide thousands of jobs in Sullivan County and millions of dollars in revenue to the state and local governments. It will also provide the tribe with the economic means necessary to protect our ancestral burial grounds, provide healthcare for members, education for our youth, the protection of our repatriated tribal artifacts, and the resources necessary for additional diverse economic development. Sullivan County is your home and it was our home for thousands of years. Our tribe has always been a faithful steward of the land and rivers. We are after all the people of the waters that are never still. We understand the importance of the Neversink River and have already undertaken programs to protect it.”

Vele then took on the issue that building a casino on the Neversink River will lead to pollution. “The site we’ve selected on the Neversink River has been used as an automobile junkyard whose runoff was polluting the river. It also had a mining operation 20 feet from the bank. Starting in 2003 we spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to remove 400 tons of material, over 1000 tires, and carried out a reclamation plan on the sand and gravel mine that led to a final closure approved by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. We are sensitive to the environmental concerns and commit ourselves to working cooperatively to ensure the environmental health of this site for the rising generations.”

Other speakers included Congressman Maurice Hinchey who said, “A world-class resort …is a chance to bring back jobs, create new economic opportunities and attract new visitors back to this incredibly deeply beautiful place. … It’s going to generate economic growth and stimulate jobs … and I don’t know that anyone should be opposed to that.”

Assemblymember Aileen Gunther said that Sullivan County can be the tourist destination it once was. She then showed a photo of her late husband, Assemblyman Jake Gunther, who, she said, started this project about 20 years ago.

When it was his turn to speak, Town of Thompson Supervisor Tony Cellini brought a sports analogy with him. Mentioning the recent successful Monticello Central School football season, Cellini tossed a miniature football to Senator Schumer. “Governor Paterson has brought the casino game ball to us and handed it off inside the five-yard line. We are now passing it to Senator Schumer, Congressman Hinchey and President Obama to carry it over the goal line to bring 2000 immediate union jobs and 1500 permanent jobs to the Town of Thompson, Sullivan County and the State of New York. We all know you guys will score for us. Thank you on behalf of all of our unemployed neighbors, who have been desperately waiting so long for this employment opportunity.”

And Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development Chairman, Josh Sommers, said the casino “can be the instant shot of adrenalin we very desperately need. …some would like this project to take another 10 years … the people of SC need these jobs now …”

When Paterson was asked what he would say to the assembled protestors who were holding signs that said “No casinos,” his answers was short and to the point. “Yes casinos,” he said. Paterson then went on to say that casinos are “not my thing. But the reality is that … so many new Yorkers do (go to casinos), that even though we are half the population of CA, we are just barely second to them for the biggest exporters of gamblers in this country. Because people are going to Foxwoods to Mohegan Sun to Atlantic City … and we have a $9 billion deficit … we have got to find revenues, we’re in a revenue crisis and the only way to solve a revenue crisis is to bring revenues in and that’s job creation, opportunities for people who are part of a 9% unemployment rate and that’s the reason we worked as hard as we could before the end of this term to try to find a way to get work and opportunity for the families here in Sullivan County and the whole Catskill area.”

At the conclusion of the news conference, Stockbridge Munsee Tribal Council Member Joe Miller explained how the casino would help his tribe. “We have so many service-related issues, service to our people health, education, welfare, public safety, fire, police. This will boost our economy to help us provide services to our people. This has always been about a land claim; gaming revenues have always been secondary. The claim originated in Madison County. Ancestrally we are from Albany up and down the Hudson River Valley, into Massachusetts and lower Vermont. Through forced relocations we ended up in Massachusetts and then in Madison County until we were forcibly removed from there. … It’s a very historical moment for us today. We’ve been traveling back and forth through this region for quite a number of years and met many wonderful people and we want to let them know that we want to partner with them.”

In addition to the compact, Governor Paterson announced that Empire Resorts, which runs Monticello Racino and Raceway, is planning an expansion of $100 million. “We will now help them with their expansion during this difficult period, such that they will be able to flourish as well,” said the Governor.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Governor Paterson is Betting on a Casino for Sullivan County, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Read Full Post »

HARRIS, NY – (November 19, 2010) – The Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) Diabetes Self-Management Training Center has been awarded continued recognition from the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The program was originally recognized in August of 2001.

Assuring high-quality education for patient self-care is one of the primary goals of the Education Recognition program and CRMC has continually exhibited this commitment to quality. Programs that achieve recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide valuable information about diabetes management for participants.

The CRMC Diabetes Self-Management program offers high-quality education and provides comprehensive, individualized programs designed to help people with diabetes attain optimal health. The program provides support and improves the quality of care for people with diabetes throughout Sullivan County and its surrounding areas. The CRMC Diabetes Self-Management Training staff consists of Certified Diabetes Educators, including a Registered Dietitian and Registered Nurse with professional input from a Board Certified Endocrinologist. For more information, please contact the CRMC Diabetes Education program at 845-794-3300 ext. 2106.

An affiliated member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, Catskill Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, call 845-794-3300 or visit www.crmcny.org.

Read Full Post »

WURTSBORO, NY (November 18, 2010) – Get clean and slathered for the holidays at the brand new Catskill Soap Company at 123 Sullivan Street in Wurtsboro. A grand opening celebration will be held on Friday, November 26 from 10:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m.

The Catskill Soap Company (CatSoCo) is the brainchild of Annie Adams who began making soaps and lotions for her friends in November of 2006. For Mother’s Day of 2007, she gave “Goddess Baskets” to the special women in her life. “The soaps were shaped like a goddess, and they were glycerin so everyone got their favorite colors.”

She also made her first batch of Hand, Face and Body Cream that year. “I had no name for it, so I personalized it. For one friend it became Donna’s Hand, Face and Body Cream.” After she used it, Donna called Annie to say that she had just “slathered” it all over her body. The product now had a name – “Slather.”

CatSoCo’s current product line includes: goat’s milk soaps, lotions, lotion mists, Slathers, butters – a body butter made of mango shea butter, jojoba oil, a little bit of beeswax and fragrance) – bath salts, sugar scrubs, salt scrubs, shower gel, liquid goats’ milk soap, shaving creams for men and women, incense and oils, and hand-dipped incense.

Adams gets her goat’s milk from a homesteader in PA. “If you purchase from me, I buy more goats’ milk and you’re helping her,” says Adams. “She’s off the grid as much as she can be. She has own farm, grows her own vegetables and makes her own cheese, she sells fruits vegetables and cheese at the farmers markets. Her kids are home-schooled. She only uses enough electric for the basic things and for her Internet website.”

Adams had started making soap in 2000 when she visited a nearby craft village and fell in love with the soap maker’s wares. “I believe in the power of nature and the power of herbs, and I believe that we have everything we need to heal anything that needs to be healed.”

CatSoCo went online in 2008. Recently, Adams branched out and did shows like the Hudson River Clearwater Revival and the Falcon Ridge Festival, and just this year she was an artisan at the Bethel Woods Harvest Festival and the NY Renaissance Faire.

CatSoCo is a green company. “My soaps are made with just five ingredients and are alcohol and paraben free. They’re handmade, old-school soaps. And everything is packaged in 100% post-consumer recycled boxes, which I’m very happy about,” says Adams. The soaps are wrapped in plastic that is biodegradable and compostable, and the shred used in packaging is called Aspen Shred – a wood shred that makes great tinder or mulch.

The store is going to be half retail space, half work space, so people will be able to see Adams at work making slather and soap, creams and lotion mists. She imagines her family will be very happy to have their kitchen, dining room and mud room back. “At home I’m limited on what I can produce and make out of my kitchen. Limited by the amount of storage … my family loves me, but they’re tired of house being in constant chaos.”

In addition to the current inventory, Adams has plans for about 25 new things she wants to make and now, “I’ll actually have space to make them,” she says. Future items will include new slather recipes. “I’d love to have a customer come in and have a fragrance bar where people can sample different fragrances, and I’ll whip it up for them. And I want to do candles, diffuser sticks and things that do not have to be lighted but give off a fragrance, like linen sprays …” Adams also wants to start making non-goat’s milk slather for her vegetarian customers.

“What’s nice about my store,” says Adams, “is that visitors can build their own gift boxes. They can go around and say I want this and that and that, and there’s no extra cost for packaging.”

At the grand opening, visitors will enjoy “delicious yumminess from Kathy’s Tea Kozy – coffee, tea, hot cider, cookies and muffins all day long,” says Adams. “They’ve been incredibly supportive to me.” In fact, Adams had a holiday open house at the Tea Kozy last year.

For additional information about The Catskill Soap Company or its grand opening on Friday, November 26, visit The Catskill Soap Company Facebook page, or visit www.catsoco.com, where you can also shop online with free shipping, or call 914-424-6434.

Read Full Post »

BETHEL, NY (November 17, 2010) – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is proud to announce it has been nominated by industry peers as the “Best Major Outdoor Concert Venue” in 2010’s Pollstar Concert Industry Awards.

Additionally, for the fifth straight year, Bethel Woods continued to rise in the “Pollstar” magazine Worldwide Ticket Sales – Top 100 Worldwide Amphitheater Venues chart. For the third quarter, the venue rose to number 22, reporting 126,018 tickets sold, compared to PNC Bank Arts Center (number 32) and Nikon at Jones Beach Theater (number 55) for the first time. 

Bethel Woods Chief Operating Officer, Darlene Fedun said “Bethel Woods is very proud of our accomplishments thus far, which could not have been achieved without the dedication of our employees and volunteers, as well as the support of our donors, sponsors and members. For a young arts center to be nominated by our peers in the industry for this prestigious honor is a testament to our combined efforts in building an extraordinary reputation.”

Bethel Woods is proud that this success continues to shine a spotlight on Sullivan County and drive awareness about all it has to offer. A total of 136,796 guests enjoyed Pavilion events in 2010 featuring a broad range of world class performers, ranging from the annual New York Philharmonic performance; the final night of country superstars Brooks & Dunn’s touring career; Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!, the center’s first children’s show; and An Evening with Sting and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, among others.

During its fifth season Bethel Woods also celebrated several important milestones including the 500,000^th concert fan to attend a Pavilion performance, Santana’s historic return to the site of the Woodstock festival, and an expanded Event Gallery Concert Series which began in April and concluded in November. An additional 2,452 people enjoyed the nine Event Gallery Concerts which included four sold-out shows.

Nominees, which also include the Hollywood Bowl, recipient of the award for the past 6 years, as well as Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in TX, Gorge Amphitheatre in WA, the Mann Center for the Performing Arts in PA, and Molson Canadian Amphitheatre in Toronto, were selected by a committee comprised of industry professionals including promoters, artist managers, booking agents and technical companies.

For more information please visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (November 16, 2010) – Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Jonathan F. Rouis announced yesterday, on America Recycles Day – a nationally recognized day to inform and educate the public about recycling– that Sullivan County will convert to Single Stream Recycling in January 2011.

Sullivan County will partner with Hudson Baylor Corporation  in embarking on this Single-Stream Recycling format.

“The County’s Solid Waste System is moving forward with an emphasis on removing waste from the waste stream that otherwise would be exported to landfills. Recycling is a major way to reduce the amount of waste, along with the Household Hazardous Waste program, and other special recycling programs to be launched in 2011,” said Rouis.

Single Stream Recycling (SSR) is a convenient method of collecting many types of recyclables all together in one container style. SSR consolidates recyclable paper, glass, plastic and metals for easy storage, collection and transport to recycling facilities for processing. In fact, double-digit recycling increases have been reported in communities that convert to SSR. Improved convenience means better compliance with mandatory recycling regulations.

“Single Stream Recycling will remove a lot of the complaints that we receive from those who find separation of recyclables in the dual stream system both confusing and a bother,” said Legislature Minority Leader Leni Binder.

Hudson Baylor Corporation (HBC) specializes in providing recycling services. A growing organization with a 27 year history of success exclusively in the recycling industry, HBC operates twelve recycling facilities in four states. Hudson Baylor operates Single Stream and Dual Stream plants. Three plants in the West service seven municipalities; Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Peoria, and Avondale, Arizona. In the Northeast, we operate eight facilities. These include facilities in Newburgh, NY Brookhaven, NY, South Windsor, CT, Dutchess County, NY, Rockland County, NY and Cape May, NJ as of January 1, 2010.

For more information: contact your county legislator at 845-807-0435 or David Fanslau at 845-807-0450.

Read Full Post »

LIBERTY, NY – Has the economy hit your sales of meat? Have you lost costumers who say they cannot afford to buy in bulk? Looking to expand your customer base? Heard about a new market and wondering if it’s right for you?

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County is pleased to present "Marketing Your Meat" webinar with Stephen Hadcock, Farm Business Specialist, Columbia County and Matthew LeRoux, Marketing Specialist, Tompkins County.

Join this innovative & interactive webinar series to answer those questions and build a solid foundation to marketing your meat. The webinar sessions will be are held at 7:00 pm online via Adobe Connect on the date specified.

December 6: A Compass for Your Business – Developing a  Business Plan. This is the first session to help you build a firm foundation and plot your course to a successful business strategy. Hosted by Steve Hadcock. 

December 8: Meat Marketing and Market Channel Selection. Choosing the right place to market your meat is important to successfully sell your meat. Hosted by Matt LeRoux. 

December 13: Am I Making Money? – Knowing Your Production Costs. Is it worth it? Adele Hayes from Sap Bush Hollow Farms will share how they get their production costs. Co-hosted by Stephen Hadcock.

December 15: Communicating with Consumers – The Marketing Plan. It’s one page that can make all the difference. Hosted by Matt LeRoux.

The series is completed with a face to face session on January 3, 2011 called Bringing it All Together. This final session allows for producers to interact with each other and financial folks to tweak that marketing plan. Location to be determined based on participant location. Lunch provided.

Please register by December 3 by contacting contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County at 845-292-6180.

The webinar is offered at no cost to livestock producers through sponsorship for Northeast SARE and the New York Farm Viability Institute.

Read Full Post »

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (November 12, 2010) – On Saturday and Sunday, November 13 and 14 the Let’s Go Vets weekend returns to 101.5 WPDH.

This weekend long salute to those who dedicated their lives to serving their country will feature veterans hosting their own hour-long radio which be broadcasted all of WPDH’s signals, including at 101.5 in Dutchess, Orange and Ulster Counties, 106.1 (WPDA) in the Sullivan County area, or online at WPDH.com.

The veterans will be given the opportunity to play their favorite WPDH songs as they step behind the microphone and add disc jockey to their already impressive list of credentials.

Gary Cee, WPDH program director, afternoon host and creator of the Let’s Go Vets weekend said, "We can’t do enough to thank the American women and men who put their lives on the line in the name of freedom.  t’s an honor to put Veterans behind the mic and listen to their stories. This is the second time we’ve done the ‘Let’s Go Vets’ weekend, and I’m certain the response will be just as great as it was the first time we did it.

For the schedule of Veterans, please log on to www.WPDH.com.

Read Full Post »

Story and photos by Carol Montana

GRAHAMSVILLE, NY (November 11, 2010) – Tri-Valley Central School in Grahamsville held two very special assemblies on the day before Veterans Day 2010.

Tyler Eckhoff, secondary school Student Council advisor and 7^th grade Social Studies teacher, together with his council and secondary school principal Jeffrey Bennett, decided the school should do something for Veterans Day. “The Elementary School has done things in the past, but we wanted to do something for the entire school this year,” said Eckhoff.

It was an all-day celebration. In the morning, the elementary classes made cards for military personnel at the local Veterans’ hospital in Montrose. “And during their lunch period, the secondary school students wrote letters to current military personnel serving in Afghanistan. We had just under 100 letters written today,” Eckhoff said.

At mid-afternoon, two assembles were held, one each for the elementary school and the secondary school. Onstage were 11 Veterans who sat quietly as the students filed noisily into the Tri-Valley Theatre.

The Veterans had been invited via and e-mail sent to all parents, an ad in the Tri-Valley Townsman, contact with the Sullivan County Veterans’ Service Agency and an automated phone message placed to all students’ homes. “We asked all the students, faculty and staff to ask any Veterans they knew to attend,” said Eckhoff.

As the ceremony got underway, the Pledge of Allegiance was led by the local Boy Scout Troop and a group of students sang The National Anthem. Each Veteran was introduced along with their rank and the military theatre in which they served. Two of the attendees, Retired Air Force Colonial Norm Nielsen, who served in Vietnam as an F-4 pilot, and his brother, John R. Nielsen who also served in Vietnam as a Chief Warrant Officer, are Tri-Valley alumni.

The Keynote speaker was Retired Major Richard Ehrmann, (photo below) who served in Vietnam from 1967-68, and has a total of 30 years of military service.

He told the students about what it means to be a Veteran, borrowing the popular anonymous definition currently traveling  the Internet, “A Veteran is someone who, at one point in his or her life, wrote a blank check made payable to The United States of America, for an amount of up to, and including his or her life.”

Major Ehrmann also talked about the experiences of war, and how different wars yield different experiences, and being part of the “band of brothers.” He told the students that being in the military means defending “two pieces of parchment, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.”

At the end of the remarks, Matt Weyant conducted Tri-Valley High School Band in the “Song of the American Soldier,” a medley of patriotic American songs.

Before Mr. Eckhoff dismissed the students, he remind them to say “thank you to any Veteran you might see.”

Following the program, Student Council Vice President, Chris Whipple talked about how the assemblies were “an eye-opening experience for the students who might not understand the importance of Veterans Day.”

Whipple, a senior who lives in Neversink, has a letter of assurance to attend West Point in June of 2011. He has a meeting with a nomination committee from Congressman Maurice Hinchey’s office this coming Tuesday.

“I was happy that Major Ehrmann spoke, not just about the good times of being a soldier, but also the hard choices, giving up part of your life for service and being willing, ultimately, to give your life. It lit up my heart,” said Whipple. His grandfather served in Korea, and his sister is a graduate of West Point and is currently serving in Afghanistan.

“It’s important,” continued Whipple, “that people always remember those who have served our country. I think that after time, especially those who served in Vietnam, the older wars, the Persian Gulf War, they are forgotten and it’s a shame because they’ve done so much for this country.”

And after the ceremony was concluded, six smiling Veterans (left to right) Fernando Costa, Gary Wells, John Neilsen, Sandy Garzon, Richard Ehrmann, Norm Neilsen showed off the cards and magnets made for them by the Tri-Valley students.

To see more photos, or to purchase prints from Tri-Valley Schools Honor Veterans, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY – (November 11, 2010) The Monticello Schools Board of Education is accepting letters of interest from community members to fill the vacancy created by the recent resignation of a board member. New York State law allows school boards to fill such vacancies by appointment until the next regular election in May.

The appointment will be for a term of approximately six months and will end on May 17, 2011. If the appointed person wishes to complete the reminder of the term for the vacated seat, which ends on June 30, 2012, he or she would need to file a petition and run for election in May 2011 along with any other interested candidates.

The Monticello Schools Board of Education members are unpaid and are required to attend a minimum of two meetings monthly. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen and a resident of the school district for at least one year prior to the appointment.

Any resident who is interested in the position should send a letter of interest and any other documentation that may be helpful in the selection process (resume, volunteer work, letters of recommendation, etc.), by 3 p.m. on Wed., November 24, 2010 to: Board of Education President c/o District Clerk, Monticello Central School District, Administrative Offices, 237 Forestburgh Road, Monticello, NY 12701.

The Board of Education will begin the candidate review process following its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, Dec. 2, 2010.

For more information, please contact District Clerk Mary Ryan Buchholz at 845-794-7700, ext. 70501.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (November 10, 2010) – County Manager David P Fanslau has filed the 2011 Tentative Sullivan County Budget with the Clerk of the County Legislature, in compliance with the County Administrative Code and New York State Law. Fanslau issued the following statement:

“This 2011 Tentative Sullivan County Budget places our residents and taxpayers first, by freezing the property tax burden and not reducing services, while capping spending below the 2010 levels.  However, to accomplish these necessary goals, I have recommended freezing salaries at the 2010 levels – deferring salary increases and longevity payments that were scheduled to take effect in 2011.  I have great compassion for the County’s employees, and feel the weight of these decisions on my shoulders.  And I recognize that I am asking our employees to sacrifice all additional compensation above their 2010 base salary in 2011 – for the Common Good – keeping our workforce intact and providing the services that our citizenry deserves and expects.

Sullivan County’s budget is predominantly driven by the unfunded mandates imposed by the New York State Government – mandates that support some of the most expensive and overly generous social services in America.  Without substantive mandate reform and relief, coupled with substantive reform and repeal of the property tax exemption statutes – the programs and services that are provided by the County Government are unsustainable.  The County Legislature will have to take specific actions to address the financial feasibility of remaining in business models that require supplements from the property taxpayers, particularly those programs that are dictated by the New York State Government.  The New York State Budget for the current State fiscal year was adopted significantly late, and by all reports is substantially imbalanced.

The 2011 Tentative County Budget appropriates a total of $190,789,772, a decrease of $190,778 from the 2010 adopted budget.  I would first note that this decrease in spending is prudent and necessary, as major revenue sources have significantly declined from 2010 adopted levels, as a result of the continuing recession.

This rapid and drastic deterioration of the economy is, of course, neither the fault of the County nor of any labor organization.  However, it was well beyond the scope we anticipated during negotiations.  Salary increases in 2011 would require a massive increase in the real property tax – which is not only impractical but also impossible in consideration of the Federal Government’s decision to not grant a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to senior citizens and disabled veterans in 2011, the Consumer Price Index (CPI), and current unemployment statistics, or require that employees be separated from employment for the sole purpose of providing compensation increases above 2010 base salary to other employees. 

The proposed 2011 County Budget moves forward with consolidation of offices and the redeployment of services, with the goal of reducing the cost of County Government being achieved, and assisted by these efforts.  The consolidation involves:

1.  The creation of the Department of Human Resources, consolidating the current departments of Personnel and Risk Management & Insurance, under the direction of Lynda Levine, Esquire.

2. Consolidation of DPW payroll functions into the Payroll Department.

3. The creation of a Health and Family Services Division Finance Unit – pooling all resources involved in billing and claiming for Medicaid and other payment sources into one streamlined unit to improve the County’s cash flow issues.

4. Directing the MIS Department to move forward with technological efficiencies, and the procurement and implementation of the Virtual Desktop Solution.

5. The creation of the DPW Flood & Erosion Control Unit that will coordinate the contract stream maintenance and cleaning functions of the Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District, with the planned projects of the DPW Engineering, and Road and Bridge Maintenance projects.

6. Directs the DPW to implement one person plowing and Snow and Ice Removal Alternatives.

7. Proceeds with the consolidation of DPW Facilities and Staff.

8. Provides for the Commissioner of the Division of Public Safety to assume some administrative duties in the Probation Department.

9. Provides for the Sheriff’s Sr. Fiscal Officer to assume the fiscal responsibilities of the Probation Department.

10. Explores the offer from Sheriff Schiff, on the potential of Probation Department restitution payments to be made at the Sheriff’s Civil Unit Office.

11. Consolidates public safety dispatching of the E911 Department and the Sheriff’s Office, thereby providing the Sheriff the ability to reassign four Patrol Deputies to active Patrol duties.  The Sheriff would assume responsibility for the E911 Department, permitting the E911 dispatchers to fully function with the ability to assist law enforcement.

12. Co-locates the Center for Workforce Development with the Planning Department to forge a priority on the mission of the Economic Development Corporation.

13. Restructures and reorganizes the DFS Special Investigations Unit and the Child Support Unit under the DFS Legal Department to increase efficiencies and share data on cases and mission, and this consolidation will result with the abolishment of two supervisory positions that are vacant from recent retirements.

The County must take steps to phase-out of business ventures that are non-performing fiscally, particularly where the private sector or non-profit sector has the capacity to provide the service.  The time has come to formally address the future fiscal ability for the County Government to remain as the chief provider of services that are mandated by the State Government, but may be more efficiently and less costly provided by the private or non-profit sectors.

In consideration of the economic conditions, and the poor result of the real property auction in June 2010, I am directing that the Economic Development Corporation and the Planning Department perform an analysis of all non-residential foreclosed property that the County has recorded title, to determine the feasibility of offering parcels of property for either a long-term land lease through the EDC or discounted sales, in exchange for sales tax generating uses, coupled with a criteria and formulary of developing “living-wage” jobs for Sullivan County residents.

The Sales Tax revenues have decreased by about $4 million between 2008 and 2010.  That $4 million in decreased sales tax revenues represents a reduction of $100 million of consumer spending within Sullivan County that would be subject to the Sales Tax.  Clearly, this underscores the need to focus the County’s Economic Development mission on developing an actionable strategy to increase opportunities that are tied to sales tax generating functions, along with a Jobs Action Plan that would realize the creation of “living-wage” jobs for Sullivan County residents.

Read Full Post »

HARRIS, NY (November 10, 2010) – Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) recently teamed up with New Hope Community to donate more than 800 food items to local food pantries.

The “Taking Care” project aimed to collect food for a day of balanced meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food items collected included soup, canned fruit and vegetables, pasta and sauce, pancake mix, oatmeal, and peanut butter and jelly.

In the photo at left participants are shown preparing items for delivery. Left to right are: New Hope House Manager Melissa Short, New Hope Resident Joe Prestianni, from the CRMC Community Service Office Melodie Denner, and New Hope Director of Program Services Carl Santos.

The items were placed in reusable tote bags which also included a flyer on free cancer screening and recycling tips. The tote bags were then delivered to local food pantries, including the Federation for the Homeless in Monticello, United Methodist Church in Hurleyville and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Liberty.

New Hope Community (NHC) Inc. provides support and advocacy for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families. Since 1975, NHC Inc. has been a pioneer in individualized supports and continues to innovate in search of best practice for those served. For more information, call 845-434-8300 or visit www.newhopecommunity.org.

An affiliated member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, CRMC is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, call 845-794-3300 or visit www.crmcny.org.

Read Full Post »

BETHEL, NY (November 9, 2010) – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts has announced the first of their confirmed concerts for 2011’s Event Gallery Concert Series.

Dave Mason, a founding member of Traffic and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, will kick off the 2011 season with an Event Gallery performance on Friday, April 15. Reserved seats are $58.00 in advance, $63.00 at the door.

Another 60s icon, Roger McGuinn, Grammy nominee and co-founder of the Byrds, will appear on Friday, May 6. Tickets are $48.00 in advance, $53 at the door. 

Additionally, Celtic fiddling sensation Eileen Ivers will mark her return to the room on Saturday, May 14.  Tickets are $52.00 in advance, $57.00 at the door.

Reserved tickets for all three performances will go on sale Friday, November 12 at 10:00 a.m. at www.BethelWoodsCenter.org, the Bethel Woods Box Office, Ticketmaster, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Parking for the events is free.

Bethel Woods Members will be notified of an exclusive pre-sale opportunity for these concerts. 2011 Season Memberships will be available in mid-November starting at $100.

Lawn passes for 2011 will be available beginning Monday, November 15. The Season Lawn Pass guarantees a spot on the lawn for every 2011 Pavilion concert including sold-out and Pavilion-only performances. Season Lawn Passes are available for $335.00 through December 31, 2010.

For further information, visit www.BethelWoodsCenter.org or call 845-583-2060, or visit the Bethel Woods Box Office. Hours are Thursday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Read Full Post »

HARRIS, NY (November 8, 2010) – Catskill Regional Medical Center (CRMC) has announced the opening of a new family-medicine practice in Livingston Manor, NY

The Livingston Manor Family Health Center, located at 36 Pearl Street, offers pediatric to geriatric family medicine, including preventive medicine, women’s healthcare, child well care and adult medicine.

Family Nurse Practitioner Julie Vernold (at left in photo) leads the practice, which offers same or next-day appointments. The staff also includes Lori DeRosa, LPN (center) and Nancy Aristizabal, Office Manager (right).

The office is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The office phone number is 845-439-3579.

“We are excited to expand our services in Sullivan County and serve a growing need in Livingston Manor and the surrounding areas,” said CRMC CEO Steven Ruwoldt. “This practice will provide better access to primary care for residents of Sullivan County and its neighboring communities in Delaware County.”

Vernold has more than 30 years of nursing experience. She earned her LPN and RN licenses from SUNY Delhi and her FNP certification from Community General Hospital in Syracuse, NY. She is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and the New York State Nurse Practitioners Association.

“I am delighted to be a part of Catskill Regional Medical Center and to provide care to residents in Livingston Manor and the surrounding communities,” said Vernold.

The Livingston Manor Family Health Center will hold an open house from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 7, when the public will be able to meet Vernold and the staff, tour the facility and enjoy refreshments.

An affiliated member of the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, Catskill Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality healthcare to residents in the Sullivan County region. For more information, visit www.crmcny.org.

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY (November 8, 2010) – The Sullivan County Clerk’s Office, in partnership with the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce and the Sullivan County Veterans’ Service Agency, will be soon be unveiling the Sullivan County "Return the F.A.V.O.R" program.

The acronym stands for Find and Assist Vets of Record, and County Clerk Dan Briggs expects to have the program in place by Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2010.

Veterans who have filed their DD214’s (honorable discharge) with the Veterans’ Service Agency will be issued identification cards, entitling them to discounts or services from participating local merchants and shops.

The program has three major objectives: to say "thank you" to those who have selflessly and courageously served our country.

Secondly, the county seeks to encourage those Veterans who have not already done so, to file their DD214’s with the Sullivan County Veterans’ Service Agency, enabling them to become aware of, and take advantage of, the many services offered to Veterans.

Lastly, the county wishes to promote local merchants who are participating in the program. Their participation will be displayed at their shops.

Startup funds were provided through a legislative member item grant from Senator John Bonacic.

Veterans will first register with the Sullivan County Veterans’ Agency to verify their service time and schedule an appointment for their photograph. Photos will be taken at the Sullivan County Clerk’s Office. The Veteran will then be able to pick up the identification card along with a list of the participating merchants. The merchant discount list will be updated on an annual basis.

For additional information on the F.A.V.O.R. program, call the Sullivan County Clerk’s Office at 845-807-0411.

Read Full Post »

LIBERTY, NY – A two-day conference in Liberty will feature over 30 specialists in downtown and main street revitalization, as well as building preservation. The experts come from around New York State. 

This year’s annual event will take place on Sunday, November 7 and Monday, November 8, and is co-sponsored by the New York Main Street Alliance (NYMSA) and the New York State Urban Council.  The conference will take place at the Liberty Museum and Arts Center located at 46 South Main Street in Liberty.

The ninth annual “New York Preservation Forum” will be held on Sunday, November 7. Various speakers will discuss restoring Main Street buildings, as well as historic preservation issues and techniques. The evening concludes with an evening reception for the Ninth Annual Preservation Art Show.

Now in its 14^th year, the annual “Main Street Forum” on Monday, November 8 will offer practical advice and information to communities on downtown revitalization issues.

For the first time, the format will be all panel discussions with Main Street experts that will cover basic, intermediate and advanced topics. One panel discussion will be moderated by representatives from the NYS Office of Community Renewal, which is responsible for millions of dollars in funding and grants for main streets and downtown redevelopment throughout New York State. 

Registration for Sunday is $40, Monday is $95; combined is $120. Breakfast and lunch at the museum are included with registration. Discounted registration rates are available for three or more persons registering together. Scholarships are available through the Liberty Museum. 

To register or for more information, contact the Liberty Museum at 845-292-2394 or www.libertymuseum.com.

Sullivan Renaissance will also provide a limited number of “registration waivers” on a first-come first-served basis to Sullivan Renaissance volunteers wishing to attend one or both events. To register for this option, contact Helen Budrock directly at 845-295-2462 or hbudrock@sullivanrenaissance.org. 

Read Full Post »

MONTICELLO, NY – County Manager David P. Fanslau announced “that as part of Sullivan County’s ongoing effort to provide opportunities for our municipal board members to get the New York State requirement of four hours of training annually, the Sullivan County Division of Planning and Environmental Management is offering back-to-back programs supplied by the American Planning Association’s Metro Chapter.”

The Planning Department will be showing prerecorded programs on a variety of subjects. After each program, there will be an opportunity to discuss the issues and talk about them within the context of Sullivan County.

The program take place this Friday, November 5, from Noon to 8 p.m. at the Legislative Hearing Room at the Sullivan County Government Center located at 100 North Street in Monticello.

Community-Based Brownfield Redevelopment – Noon to 2:00 p.m. – Too often, community groups and residents of low-income communities are left out of the brownfield redevelopment process. Learn how to engage community members so they can see the opportunities presented by brownfield sites. Find out how the community can weigh the costs of brownfield redevelopment. Hear from community members as well as technical experts. Cosponsor: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

2010 Planning Law Review – 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – State and federal courts across the country hand down hundreds of decisions affecting the practice of planning and land use law. This program highlights some of the more important decisions and explains their significance.

Design Guidelines for Small and Rural Communities – 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Design Guidelines for Small and Rural Communities – Planners often must turn traditional urban design principles inside-out to develop design guidelines for small towns and rural communities. This CD-ROM training package explores those unique approaches planners are using to develop commercial and residential guidelines that are mindful of small-town and rural character.

Redevelopment and Revitalization for a New Era – 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. – The current economy coupled with the federal stimulus package provides new opportunities for redevelopment in many communities. What is being funded and what opportunities are emerging? Will the desire to use resources more efficiently provide a good match with planning goals?

“Each municipality determines what programs are eligible to qualify for the training requirement, but the Planning Department recommends that participants receive two (2) hours of training credit for each session,” said Fanslau.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is appreciated, but not required. For more information, call Heather Jacksy at 845-807-0527 or email planning@co.sullivan.ny.us.

Read Full Post »